The Epic Tale of Chaos vs Order

Chapter 367 Walk to Heaven (II)

Cain didn't notice the expressions on people's faces as he used every ounce of strength and focus on his body and energy, preventing it from spiraling out of control. He endured the pressure that assaulted him from every direction.

His Astral Wave, which usually flowed with the vigor of a racehorse, now moved sluggishly. It took all his strength to push it forward. He chose not to sit, fearing that if he did, he wouldn't be able to rise again and keep moving the Astral Wave through his meridians, compelling his Rebirth Heart to beat with increasing intensity.

While he adjusted to the ninth step in an hour, the tenth step took him nearly six. However, the color eventually returned to Cain's face, and his Astral Wave flowed powerfully through his meridians.

With determination in his eyes, he looked at the eleventh step. Taking a deep breath, he jumped onto it. Immediately, his knees buckled, and his entire body began to shake. A metallic taste filled his mouth.

The pressure was overwhelming, threatening to freeze his Astral Wave, which would have caused significant damage. Yet, Cain's eyes burst with red light, utilizing his Ego Wave to its maximum, forcing his Astral Wave forward and aiding his Rebirth Heart in enduring the pressure.

Observers at the base could see the ordeal Cain was experiencing. Still, they remained silent. Their admiration grew when, after a full day, Cain stood tall, his Astral Wave coursing powerfully through him.

Their amazement intensified when Cain leaped to the twelfth step. Despite the pressure, the young man persevered.

Imperial Princesses and Scholars watched in awe, recognizing this meant Cain's talent could reach the pinnacle of the Apotheosis Realm.

Hours passed, and while Cain adapted more to the pressure of the Stair to Heaven, he hadn't fully acclimated. Although he regained control of his body, his Astral Wave remained sluggish.

Cain's eyes radiated red as he adjusted his breathing and set his sights on the 13th step.

Witnessing this, the spectators were awestruck. Reaching the 13th step signified a talent suitable for becoming a Divine Ascension Cultivator, the highest rank in Aether.

Cain calmly approached the end of the step, the red light in his eyes intensifying. Yet, instead of advancing to the 13th step, he retreated, immediately feeling the pressure from the Stair to Heaven dissipate as he descended to the ground.

Seeing this, many felt a pang of disappointment that Cain didn't challenge the 13th step.

Cain saw their reactions but remained unfazed. He could have taken the step, but the immense pressure would've overwhelmed him, risking severe injury. Why risk harm just to prove something to onlookers?

What truly mattered to Cain right now was the state of his Astral Wave.

Cain's eyes shimmered meaningfully, sensing the speed of his Astral Wave through his meridians. The Stair to Heaven served as both a test and a training ground, with immediate effects.

With his enhanced Astral Wave, his proficiency in the Four Basic Wave Arts would improve, further boosting his combat abilities. A smile spread across his face, feeling his power surge ever since he arrived in Eden.

Dominguez, as stunned as the others, consulted with the two other Imperial Scholars. They quickly reached a consensus based on Cain's performance.

"Having observed and evaluated every facet of your performance, we are pleased to grant Colonel Laurifer the mark of High Marquis.

We would like to mention, and it will be on record, that your feat reached the boundary of Vice-Duke. However, due to your age and military rank, we are unable to grant it at the moment."

Klaus, Michael, and the others were surprised to hear that. A Vice-Duke was an extremely high title, and the fact that Dominguez mentioned it meant it was just a matter of a few years before Cain could attain it.

Cain wasn't overly concerned about the title of nobility, but he understood its importance. He extended his gratitude to Dominguez and the other two Imperial Scholars.

"I thank you for your efforts."

"It is our duty. We will see you again in two months for the final test: The Ascension to the Stars."

Dominguez spoke those words and nodded to Cain before he and the other Imperial Scholars departed.

"Hahaha, well done, Colonel Laurifer, you've done an excellent job."

Klaus approached Cain, offering his hand for a shake. After a brief handshake, he added, "There's a small party at my home if you're interested."

Although the Fourth Imperial Prince didn't say it directly, the party was to celebrate Cain's achievements.

Cain smiled but gently declined, "Thanks, but I have important matters to attend to at the moment. Maybe next time."

Klaus's eyes narrowed, sharing a meaningful glance with Cain. Clearly, the matter concerned the investigation. The brief exchange ended, and both men resumed their pleasant demeanor.

"I understand. I hope to see you soon, Colonel."

With that, Klaus turned around and departed while others approached Cain. Just like with Klaus, Cain engaged in small talk but declined any further invitations. Soon after, he left the venue, heading to his residence.

Once home, Cain's exhaustion took over, and he went straight to sleep. Upon awakening, he activated his [A.I. Chip Module].

"How did it go?"

He sent the message, and within seconds, a reply came in Krane's voice.

"As commanded, I've inspected the Azure State. Just as stated by the Fourth Imperial Prince, thousands have vanished. They're primarily from remote villages, orphanages, or areas where their absence would create minimal disturbance. That's why, despite the high number of disappearances, there's no real uproar or concern; the changes have gone largely unnoticed."

Krane had accompanied Cain to the Cicada Forest, but his departure wasn't for training. Instead, he stealthily left Eden to investigate the Azure State and the mysterious disappearances.

As Cain went through the list of those missing, his expression grew increasingly somber. The common thread behind each disappearance was the presence of children.

"And the Azure Royal Family's involvement?"

"I've searched their facilities and did some recon. I found no direct connections, but I made a startling discovery. There's a high chance of an intercontinental teleportation formation in their main castle."